Bacteria with flu-like symptoms is spreading in Japan: What is Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome?

In Japan, scientists are witnessing a deadly outbreak of flesh-eating bacteria which has got flu-like symptoms, causing patients to believe their illness will go away in a few days. However, this disease can cause the patient's death in only two days. Here's everything you need to know.

What is Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome?

More than 1,000 cases of Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) have been reported in Japan since the beginning of the year. Last year, in the same time span, only 941 cases had been reported, which suggests a peak could be underway, according to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases.

As the CDC explains, STSS is an evolution of strep throat, which mostly targets children. It is a rare but severe bacterial infection which occurs when bacteria penetrates into your blood cells through your skin, for example if you've got a cut on your arm. Infected cells can travel in your body, causing shock and organ failure as they go. Symptoms usually include chills, fever, myalgia (muscle pain), nausea and vomiting, much like having the flu. According to the CDC, it is extremely rare for patients to contaminate others, as the disease usually remains in one's body.

Patients can die within two days

According to Japanese newspaper Asahi Shimbun, the outbreak hit the city of Tokyo the most, which houses about 14 million people. Most cases have been reported in adults aged over 30, and the mortality rate remains high at around 30%. Ken Kikuchi, a professor in infectious diseases at Tokyo Women’s Medical University, told Bloomberg:

Most of the deaths happen within 48 hours. As soon as a patient notices swelling in foot in the morning, it can expand to the knee by noon, and they can die within 48 hours.

According to the professor, people over 50 or people who have got other health issues are especially at risk of developing a serious case of STSS and eventually succumb to the disease. So, what can you do to avoid catching the disease? It's rather simple, in fact. Good personal hygiene is incredibly important, so remember to wash your hands regularly and thoroughly. Also keep a close eye on any cuts or infections of the skin, as they could involve into something worse. When in doubt, contact your GP and do not panic. STSS is treatable with antibiotics and sometimes surgery is required to remove the infected area.

Read more:

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Sources used:

NDTV World: Explained: What's Causing The Spread Of "Flesh-Eating Bacteria" In Japan

Center for Disease Control: Clinical Guidance for Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome

Global News: ‘Flesh-eating bacteria’ disease spreads in Japan, killing some in 2 days

Bloomberg: Flesh-Eating Bacteria That Can Kill in Two Days Spreads in Japan